This Italian Polenta with Sausage is a comforting, hearty dish that brings together creamy cornmeal polenta and savory sausage simmered in a rich tomato sauce. It’s simple to prepare, deeply satisfying, and perfect for a cozy family dinner or a relaxed weeknight meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is ideal when you want something filling and flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. The polenta cooks into a smooth, creamy base that pairs beautifully with the robust tomato sauce and tender sausage. It feels like classic Italian comfort food, yet it uses everyday ingredients and straightforward steps. It’s also easy to customize based on what you have on hand.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the polenta
1 cup coarse cornmeal (polenta)
4 cups chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the sausage and sauce
1 pound halal Italian-style beef or chicken sausage
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup tomato sauce
1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
For serving
1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan-style cheese
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
In a medium pot, bring the chicken broth to a gentle boil. Slowly whisk in the cornmeal, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking, stirring frequently, for 20 to 25 minutes until the polenta is thick and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper, then keep warm over very low heat.
While the polenta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and lightly browned. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté for about 4 to 5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the tomato sauce, add salt, black pepper, and dried oregano, and let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes.
Slice the cooked sausage into bite-sized pieces and return it to the skillet. Stir to coat the sausage with the sauce and heat for another 2 to 3 minutes.
To serve, spoon the warm polenta onto plates or into bowls. Top with the sausage and tomato sauce, then finish with grated cheese and fresh herbs.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Variations
For a vegetarian version, replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based halal sausage alternative.
For extra creamy polenta, stir in 2 tablespoons of butter or 1/4 cup warm milk just before serving.
For added heat, include a pinch of red pepper flakes in the tomato sauce.
For a cheese-forward dish, mix 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella-style cheese into the polenta before serving.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The polenta will firm up as it cools. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth and stirring until creamy again. Reheat the sausage and sauce separately or together, until hot.
FAQs
Can I use instant polenta instead of coarse cornmeal?
Yes, instant polenta works well and cooks faster. Follow the package instructions for liquid ratios and cooking time.
What type of sausage should I use?
Halal beef or chicken Italian-style sausage works best for flavor and texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the polenta and the sausage sauce in advance and reheat them just before serving.
How do I prevent lumps in polenta?
Whisk the cornmeal into boiling liquid slowly and stir constantly, especially during the first few minutes.
Can I freeze leftover polenta?
Polenta can be frozen, but its texture may change slightly. Reheat with added liquid and stir well to restore creaminess.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, it is mild. You can add spice with chili flakes or a spicy sausage if desired.
Can I use water instead of chicken broth?
Yes, but broth adds more flavor. If using water, increase seasoning slightly.
What can I serve with polenta and sausage?
A simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed greens pair very well with this dish.
Can I make the polenta dairy-free?
Yes, simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
How thick should the polenta be?
It should be creamy and spoonable, not stiff. Add more warm liquid if it becomes too thick.
Conclusion
Italian Polenta with Sausage is a timeless comfort dish that combines simple ingredients into a rich and satisfying meal. With its creamy texture, savory sauce, and flexible variations, it’s a recipe you can rely on for busy nights or relaxed dinners alike. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a regular favorite at your table.
